Weather disruptions begin in Montpellier

New weather disruptions are expected to begin on Monday, October 19, in the Montpellier region, following an earlier Cevennes episode that caused significant damage in the area.

Torrential rains damage Corum building

Torrential rains at the end of September submerged the city and its surroundings, leading to the collapse of the false ceilings at the Corum, a building that houses the convention center and opera. The collapse caused the building's electrical system to fall with them.

Corum's renovation delayed by weather

The Corum, an emblematic pink granite monolith, had just begun renovation work, which was scheduled to include a "waterproofing" aspect starting in 2027. However, the torrential rains on September 30 disrupted this schedule.

Mayor estimates renovation cost at 40 million euros

The mayor of Montpellier and president of the metropolitan area, Michaël Delafosse, estimates the cost of a full renovation of the Corum at 40 million euros. The diagnostics are not yet finalized, but the building's structure could be affected.

Delafosse seeks 27 million euros from 2027 Finance Bill

Delafosse mentioned during a press meeting that 27 million euros would be required from the funds allocated in the 2027 Finance Bill. He questioned what era they were entering if these figures applied, noting the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change.

Delafosse criticizes government savings request

Delafosse also referred to the 5.4 billion euros in savings requested by the government from municipalities and intercommunalities, which he described as "excessive" and "disproportionate." Jean-François Debat, president of the Local Finance Committee (CFL), called the savings request "excessive" and "disproportionate."

Aging infrastructure requires urgent investment

Delafosse mentioned the need to cover what he called "the gray debt," referring to the aging of buildings and infrastructures constructed in the 1990s and 2000s that are no longer waterproof. He cited another example of significant investment needed: the tramway rails, which are renovated in sections during each school holiday period.